Living in Edinburgh

From character period properties to modern new developments, city centre apartments to country homes, there is a huge spectrum of housing options available across the city region integrated with a diverse array of green space for residents.

Edinburgh offers an array of residential accommodation to buy or rent, including traditional tenement styles with period features and low maintenance new build developments.

Edinburgh is recognised throughout the world as a fantastic and desirable place to live. The average cost to rent a city centre, one bedroom flat is up to 56% cheaper than in London, whilst the city has more 'green space' than any other in the UK.

The Scottish capital is steeped in history, providing its residents with the sights, sounds and tastes of a diverse and vibrant capital city. Clean, compact and safe, Edinburgh, regularly tops the list of European cities where people would most like to live.

As with every city, Edinburgh has several areas that are popular to live in with each offering their own characteristics. Popular areas include:

City Centre - Georgian splendour of the New Town next to the historic charms of the Old Town.

Stockbridge - Very popular residential area, particularly for families. The Water of Leith runs through this lovely part of town, which very much has its own relaxed ‘village’ atmosphere.

Leith - Historic port town that is known for its waterfront views, smart apartment blocks, and award winning restaurants and bars. Leith is particularly popular with young people, though many families also live in the area.

Morningside and Bruntsfield - Adjacent districts that retain their own unique ‘village’ feel. Just a short bus ride from the city centre, they are quieter and very popular with families. The primary and secondary schools are particularly sought after.

When trying to attract experienced staff to move, Edinburgh’s range of great schools, easy access to the outdoors and high standard of living is an attractive proposition.

Michael Boniface, managing director, Skymoons Edinburgh

Housing hunting

Searching for a new home can often be difficult when you don’t know the area, however we can provide you with information on the capital’s housing market, neighbourhoods, amenities, transport options within the city and details on local schools and universities. We can also connect you with experienced local estate agents who offer some of the most sought after flats, apartments and houses, for sale and rent across the Edinburgh city region.

The cost of residential property in the UK varies massively depending on location. In 2017, the average selling price of a residential property in Edinburgh was approximately £225,650. (Note: Average house price refers to April 2017 sales)

Location (UK)

Average price (£)

Edinburgh

225,650

London

482,610

Scotland

142,140

United Kingdom

219,540

The Edinburgh Solicitors Property Centre (ESPC) lists properties from a network of around 200 Solicitor Estate Agents and markets them through its website, espc.com, a free weekly property newspaper and its showrooms in Edinburgh and Dunfermline. Edinburgh also offers competitive rental costs compared to other UK cities. The letting agency Citylets publishes quarterly reports providing a breakdown of average rents in each area of Edinburgh.

Council Tax

All residential properties in Scotland are subject to Council Tax. Council Tax is a local tax, with annual receipts contributing directly to the funding of local services. In Scotland, all residential properties are assigned to one of eight bands (from A to H), based upon the value of that property. More information on Council Tax bands and charges in Edinburgh, setting up a new account, whether or not you will be entitled to discounts and exemptions, and how to pay your Council Tax can be found at the City of Edinburgh Council.

Contact

If you would like to find out more about how we can help you and your business establish, relocate or expand within the city region, or would simply like more information about what Edinburgh has to offer.